Key Takeaways
- Copper prices have tumbled for a second consecutive week following the announcement of surprise tariffs by the Trump administration, signaling potential trade war concerns.
- Tesla (TSLA) experienced a significant 34.7% drop in car registrations in Italy from January to July 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, according to Italian Transport Ministry data.
- The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), a key funder for NPR and PBS, is set to shut down operations after being excluded from congressional funding, marking an end to nearly six decades of public media support.
- ChatGPT announced a major milestone, surpassing 5 million paying business users, underscoring the rapid adoption of AI in the enterprise sector.
- Pfizer (PFE) CEO reportedly attended a $25 million MAGA Inc. fundraiser at former President Trump's Bedminster Golf Club.
In a week marked by significant policy shifts and corporate developments, commodity markets reacted sharply to new trade policies, while the automotive sector faced regional headwinds. Meanwhile, the public media landscape is set for a major overhaul, and tech giants continue to push the boundaries of artificial intelligence.
Copper prices have seen a notable decline for the second straight week, a direct consequence of the Trump administration's unexpected announcement of new tariffs. This move has sparked concerns among investors regarding potential global trade disruptions and their impact on raw material demand.
The automotive industry is facing localized challenges, with Tesla (TSLA) reporting a substantial 34.7% decrease in car registrations in Italy for the January to July 2025 period compared to the previous year. This data, released by the Italian Transport Ministry, highlights a significant downturn for the electric vehicle giant in a key European market.
In the media sector, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which has been a financial bedrock for NPR and PBS for nearly six decades, has announced it will begin winding down operations. This decision follows Congress's exclusion of the CPB from recent funding allocations, signaling a major shift in public media support.
On the corporate front, Pfizer (PFE) CEO was reported to have attended a $25 million MAGA Inc. fundraiser held at former President Trump’s Bedminster Golf Club. This event, reported by CBS, highlights the intersection of corporate leadership and political fundraising.
Meanwhile, the education sector saw the Trump administration freeze $339 million in UCLA research grants over alleged civil rights violations. This action could significantly impact ongoing research projects at the university.
In the technology space, Apple (AAPL) CEO Tim Cook reaffirmed the company's "massive commitment" to artificial intelligence, stating that AI is "ours to grab" during an all-hands meeting. This strong declaration underscores Apple's strategic focus on AI development. Further demonstrating AI's growing commercial traction, ChatGPT COO Brad Lightcap announced that the platform has now surpassed 5 million paying business users. This milestone highlights the increasing enterprise adoption of advanced AI solutions.
Finally, Starbucks (SBUX) plans to deploy self-service kiosks at busy U.S. airports. The coffee giant aims to cut long lines and improve service efficiency with this initiative, according to Bloomberg.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.